Pennsylvania’s newest tool… Stormwater Management Authorities

STORMWATER Rising Costs Straining Local Budgets Aging Stormwater Infrastructure Inadequate Stormwater Facilities Increased Incidence of Flooding Events Water Resources Degradation Ongoing Operations & Maintenance Costs Federal and State Regulatory Requirements

STORMWATER Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Act Purpose: −Title 53, Chapter 56 authorizes and governs municipal public improvements, utilities and services Type of Authority Method for Setting Rates Fee vs. Tax

STORMWATER Act 68 of 2013 Purpose: −Authorizes new or existing municipal authorities to undertake stormwater planning, management and implementation Summary: −Amends the “purposes and powers” section of the Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Act (MAA) to authorize new or existing municipal authorities to undertake stormwater planning, management and implementation as defined in the articles of incorporation of the governing body −Create a New Independent Stormwater Authority or add Stormwater Responsibilities to an Existing Authority

STORMWATER Act 123 of 2014 Purpose: −Amends the Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Act to provide that the reasonable and uniform rates of a stormwater authority may be based on property characteristics which may include Best Management Practices Summary: −Allows stormwater authorities to establish programs that could save rate payers money by allowing property owners to reduce their stormwater rates and charges by implementing stormwater Best Management Practices that address their own contributions to the problems caused by stormwater runoff

STORMWATER 6 Reasons for Municipalities to Consider Authorities Funding … money can be used to for stormwater management, complying with state and federal requirements, and matching grant funding Maintenance … fees can be used to maintain the stormwater system, reducing flooding and water pollution Choice … fees can be set several ways to best address a community’s situation Green Infrastructure … funds can be invested in rain gardens, tree plantings, wetland construction, stream improvements, etc. Focus… Authorities can concentrate exclusively on stormwater management, rather than all other responsibilities faced by municipalities Compliance … Many authorities already manage DEP and EPA pollution permits and other regulations that will impact stormwater management responsibilities Adapted from Water Words That Work 10/28/2014 presentation to PMAA. Based on a survey of local government officials within the Susquehanna River Basin.

STORMWATER One Size Does Not Fit All Size and Type of Community Matters Need for Funding and/or Desired Level of Service Vary Reasons for Forming A Stormwater Authority Vary Political Will of Local Elected Officials Presence of a Local Champion

STORMWATER Securing Community Support TOP 5 RECOMMENDATIONS Call it a ‘Pollution Control and Flood Reduction Fee’ or something similar (have the name emphasize the benefits) Clearly show ratepayers how the money will be used (before and after photos) Present the fee as a solution to a local problem that provides local benefits Present the fee in the smallest increment Affirm the money will be used for its stated purpose – and not diverted to other uses Adapted from Water Words That Work 10/28/2014 presentation to PMAA. Based on a public opinion survey of Susquehanna River Basin residents.

STORMWATER Three-Phased Approach to Forming an Authority Phase 1 – Needs Analysis (Feasibility Study) Phase 2 – Program Development Phase 3 – Billing System Development

STORMWATER What to Expect, Lessons Learned Equitable & Defensible Rate Structures Can Withstand Legal Challenges Document the Decision-making Process Recommended Three-Phased Approach Develop a ‘Business Plan’ Approach Provide a Credit System Non-profits Are Biggest Opponents Large National Companies Generally Accept Costs Education – Early and Often Incorporate the Budget and Election Cycle into the Project Schedule 18 – 24 months

Russell Benner, PE | Division Leader, PA Public Works Group Questions?